National Finals Rodeo Blog

Gracemere rodeo hero gambles on national finals

Tue, 22 May 2012 00:23:00 GMT

Gracemere rodeo hero Stuart Frame is set to take on Australia’s best rodeo stars at the professional sport’s national final on the Gold Coast in June.

After a gruelling but successful year on the rodeo circuit, Frame has qualified for the Jupiter’s Gold Coast National Finals Rodeo, which is set to be held on the Gold Coast over four days from Thursday, June 14, 2012.

Australian Professional Rodeo Association standings reveal Frame, who was the 2003 Australian Bull Riding Champion, has qualified to compete in the Bareback Bronc Ride category of the national finals

APRA general manager Steve Mr Hilton said the competition at the Jupiter’s Gold Coast National Finals Rodeo was restricted to 15 qualifiers in each of the six events, which include saddle and bareback bronc riding, bull riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling and roping.

“This year the National Finals Rodeo will have five rounds spread with prize money being awarded after each round,’’ said Mr Hilton.

“The competitor in each event with the most prize money at the end of the four days will be crowned as the national champion.”

Hilton said Frame stood a strong chance of taking out the national title.

“Simply qualifying for the Jupiter’s Gold Coast National Finals Rodeo is a big achievement in itself and Stuart has finished third in the standings this year,’’ said Mr Hilton.

“Each year thousands of rodeo competitors travel thousands of kilometres to compete across the nation in more than 100 events in the hope of getting to the National Finals Rodeo.

“A lot of blood, sweat and sometimes tears go into a year on the rodeo circuit and it all leads to the Gold Coast.

“Now that Stuart has qualified, anything could happen at the finals in June.”

Mr Hilton said he expected Frame would be well supported at the National Finals Rodeo.

“I know the Gold Coast is a long way from home but our rodeo fans from Central Queensland are very dedicated and I expect a good contingent of Rockhampton locals to head to the Gold Coast.

“In fact I would strongly encourage each and every one of our fans to come along and see what all the excitement of the national finals is all about.

“The Gold Coast knows how to host big events and the Jupiter’s National Finals Rodeo is certainly one of the city’s major events on its annual calendar.

“We like to say that it’s the week that the Cowboys come to town.”

Chris Lowe is set to take on Australia's best rodeo stars

Tue, 22 May 2012 00:30:00 GMT

Barraba-based rodeo hero Chris Lowe is set to take on Australia’s best rodeo stars at the professional sport’s national final on the Gold Coast in June.

After a gruelling but successful year on the rodeo circuit, Lowe has qualified for the Jupiter’s Gold Coast National Finals Rodeo, which is set to be held on the Gold Coast over four days from Thursday, June 14, 2012.

Australian Professional Rodeo Association standings reveal Lowe has qualified to compete in the always popular bull riding final.

“This year the National Finals Rodeo will have five rounds spread with prize money being awarded after each round,’’ said Mr Hilton.

“The competitor in each event with the most prize money at the end of the four days will be crowned as the national champion.”

Hilton said Lowe stood a strong chance of taking out the national title.

“Simply qualifying for the Jupiter’s Gold Coast National Finals Rodeo is a big achievement in itself,’’ said Mr Hilton.

“Each year thousands of rodeo competitors travel thousands of kilometres to compete across the nation in more than 100 events in the hope of getting to the National Finals Rodeo.

“A lot of blood, sweat and sometimes tears go into a year on the rodeo circuit and it all leads to the Gold Coast.

“Now that Lowe has qualified, anything could happen at the finals in June.”

Mr Hilton said he expected Lowe would be well supported at the National Finals Rodeo.

“I know the Gold Coast is a long way from home but our rodeo fans from northern New South Wales are very dedicated and I expect a good contingent of Blues fans to invade the Gold Coast for the rodeo.

“In fact I would strongly encourage each and every one of our fans to come along and see what all the excitement of the national finals is all about.

“The Gold Coast knows how to host big events and the Jupiter’s National Finals Rodeo is certainly one of the city’s major events on its annual calendar.

“We like to say that it’s the week that the Cowboys come to town.”

Jane Fay guns for national finals rodeo glory

Tue, 22 May 2012 00:30:00 GMT

Warra rodeo hero Jane Fay is set to take on Australia’s best rodeo stars at the professional sport’s national final on the Gold Coast in June.

After a gruelling but successful year on the rodeo circuit, Fay has qualified for the Jupiter’s Gold Coast National Finals Rodeo, which is set to be held on the Gold Coast over four days from Thursday, June 14, 2012.

Australian Professional Rodeo Association standings reveal Fay, who first found fame when she was named the 2002 Rookie Cowgirl of the Year, has this year qualified to compete in the Breakaway Roping at the national final.

“This year the National Finals Rodeo will have five rounds spread with prize money being awarded after each round,’’ said Mr Hilton.

“The competitor in each event with the most prize money at the end of the four days will be crowned as the national champion.”

Hilton said Fay stood a strong chance of taking out the national title.

“Simply qualifying for the Jupiter’s Gold Coast National Finals Rodeo is a big achievement in itself,’’ said Mr Hilton.

“Each year thousands of rodeo competitors travel thousands of kilometres to compete across the nation in more than 100 events in the hope of getting to the National Finals Rodeo.

“A lot of blood, sweat and sometimes tears go into a year on the rodeo circuit and it all leads to the Gold Coast.

“Now that Jane has qualified, anything could happen at the finals in June.”

Mr Hilton said he expected Fay would be well supported at the National Finals Rodeo.

“I know the Gold Coast is a long way from home but our rodeo fans from the around Dalby are very dedicated and I expect a good contingent of Dalby locals to head to the Gold Coast.

“In fact I would strongly encourage each and every one of our fans to come along and see what all the excitement of the national finals is all about.

“The Gold Coast knows how to host big events and the Jupiter’s National Finals Rodeo is certainly one of the city’s major events on its annual calendar.

“We like to say that it’s the week that the Cowboys come to town.”

Jupiters Gold Coast ties up rodeo sponsorship

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 05:42:00 GMT

JUPITERS Hotel & Casino Gold Coast has signed up as the major sponsor for the Australian grand final of the professional rodeo circuit.

The Jupiters Gold Coast National Finals Rodeo will be held at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre in Broadbeach from June 14 to June 17, 2012.

Event co-ordinator Marshall Hall said the Jupiters Gold Coast National Finals Rodeo (NFR) was the largest indoor Rodeo and entertainment event in Australia.

“For the Australian Professional Rodeo Association, this is the pinnacle of rodeo events in Australia,’’ said Mr Hall.

“Each year more than 350,000 spectators watch tens of thousands of hopefuls compete in the 120-plus accredited rodeos that are held across Australia and it all culminates in the National Finals Rodeo on the Gold Coast.

“The best of the best of Australia’s rodeo riders compete here and it is a privilege to have the support of a naming rights sponsor which is also clearly the best of the best in the region.”

Jupiters Hotel & Casino Acting Managing Director Craig Peachey said the property was excited to once again be the naming right’s sponsor and official after-party venue for the 2012 Jupiters Gold Coast National Finals Rodeo.

“With the recent launch of our $20 million redeveloped Jupiters Theatre and concerts from Michael Bolton, Tony Bennett, Seal and Kelly Rowland, Jupiters is all about entertaining experiences,” Mr Peachey said.

“As an iconic venue on the Gold Coast we are proud to be involved with an event like the Jupiters Gold Coast National Finals Rodeo and we will continue to contribute to the development of the region as an entertainment hot spot.

“Jupiters Hotel & Casino will be the place to be after the national title events across the footbridge and we look forward to welcoming the NFR including the competing cowboys here throughout the extended weekend,” he said.

The Jupiters Gold Coast National Finals Rodeo will see the top 15 national qualifiers in six events ‑ Bull Riding, Saddle Bronc, Bareback Bronc Riding, Team Roping, Steer Wrestling and Ladies Barrel Racing ‑ compete for the national title over four days of gruelling events.

“The rodeo is not your typical outback rodeo,’’ said Mr Hall. “With all the flair and extravaganza of a mini Las Vegas style of production, it is aimed to suit a wider target market and gives the regional public a real taste of the outback.”

The event, which is held at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, will include a variety of side events held in conjunction with Jupiters Hotel & Casino Gold Coast and the wider Gold Coast community.

The event annually attracts tens of thousands of competitors, family, friends and rodeo goers from all over Australia. In previous years the media exposure generated has been valued at more than $1.8 million while the value to the Gold Coast economy has been estimated to be worth as much as $10 million.

Teen star gambles on national rodeo glory

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 05:33:00 GMT

Up and coming South East Queensland barrel racing star Cheyenne Whitwell is set to take on Australia’s best rodeo stars at the professional sport’s national final on the Gold Coast in June.

After a gruelling but successful year on the rodeo circuit, Ms Whitwell has qualified for the Jupiters Gold Coast National Finals Rodeo, which is set to be held on the Gold Coast over four days from Thursday, June 14, 2012.

Australian Professional Rodeo Association standings revealed the 16-year-old, who was the runner up in the Junior All Around Champion, has shown the older riders a thing or two and has qualified in 13^th spot nationally to compete for the national barrel racing title.

She will compete against the likes of three-time Australian Barrel Racing Champion Teneille Clifford.

Ms Clifford, from the northern NSW town of Gunnedah, will enter the National Finals as a crowd favourite but only finished the season marginally ahead of Ms Whitwell in 10^th place.

APRA general manager Steve Hilton said the competition at the Jupiters Gold Coast National Finals Rodeo was restricted to 15 qualifiers in each of the six events, which include saddle and bareback bronc riding, bull riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling and roping.

“This year the National Finals Rodeo will have five rounds spread with prize money being awarded after each round,’’ said Mr Hilton.

“The competitor in each event with the most prize money at the end of the four days will be crowned as the national champion.”

Hilton said both Ms Whitwell and Ms Clifford stood a strong chance of taking out the national title but they would be competing against the nation’s best.

“Simply qualifying for the Jupiter’s Gold Coast National Finals Rodeo is a big achievement in itself,’’ said Mr Hilton.

“Each year thousands of rodeo competitors travel thousands of kilometres to compete across the nation in more than 100 events in the hope of getting to the National Finals Rodeo.

“A lot of blood, sweat and sometimes tears go into a year on the rodeo circuit and it all leads to the Gold Coast.

“Now that they have both qualified, anything could happen at the finals in June.”

Mr Hilton said he expected both would be well supported at the National Finals Rodeo.

“I know the Gold Coast is a couple of hours drive from Cheyenne’s home at Mt Tarampa, west of Brisbane and Teneille’s home in Gunnadah but our rodeo fans are very dedicated and I expect a good contingent of their supporters to head to the Gold Coast to cheer them on.

“In fact I would strongly encourage each and every one of our fans to come along and see what all the excitement of the national finals is all about.

“The Gold Coast knows how to host big events and the Jupiters National Finals Rodeo is certainly one of the city’s major events on its annual calendar.

“We like to say that it’s the week that the Cowboys come to town.”

Follow the 2012 NFR on Facebook

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 04:56:00 GMT

With tickets going on sale for the 2012 National Finals Rodeo this week, the best way to stay in touch is to follow us on Facebook

We will be providing plenty of information on the event including news, latest event details and promotions throughout the period leading up to the massive June Event.

Our facebook page can be found here at http://on.fb.me/hjo7FI

The Nationals Final Rodeo runs from June 14 - 17, 2012 at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Tickets can be purchase through Ticketek. Call 134 849 or Purchase online at via the Ticketek website http://bit.ly/I7TmhD

SATURDAY CROWDS GO BULLISTIC AT APRA NATIONAL FINALS RODEO

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 10:54:00 GMT

HUGE crowds raised the roof at todays two Super Saturday sessions of the Jupiters Australian Professional Rodeo Association (APRA) National Finals Rodeo.

120 of Australias best cowboys and cowgirls are competing in six Australian championship events at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre at Broadbeach.

It was a day when the top bull riding cowboys regained some ascendency over a herd of fired up bulls that had utter disrespect for reputations during the earlier rounds.

The frantic action was played out before large audiences of country visitors, local families, politicians, sponsors and bronzed surf life savers in town to compete in their own national titles.

It was particularly pleasing to see so many children here this afternoon, said rodeo organiser Mick Ellison.

We knew the matinee session would attract families, but we were pleasantly surprised that so many took the time to come along to what for quite a few was their first taste of rodeo.

And both crowds were seriously getting into the action the noise was deafening, he said.

The final session of the rodeo is on Sunday (10th) at 5:30pm.

Tickets are available at www.nfrgoldcoast.com.au, www.ticketek.com or at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre ticket office.

Rodeo supporters include Jupiters, the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, Jack Daniels, RACV Royal Pines Resort, Sunshine Ford, Australian Outback Spectacular, Variety Queensland, Tyrells Wines and Fourex Gold, Coast Tourism, Gold Coast City Council, 102.9 Hot Tomato, Gold Coast Bulletin, Broadbeach Alliance & Tourism Queensland.

ROUND THREE RESULTS SATURDAY MATINEE

Saddle Bronc
1. Cameron Webster 77pts
2. Glen Kent 74 pts
3. Mark Collins 74 pts
4. Michael Maher 73 pts

Bull Ride
1. Troy Mara 81pts
2. Ty Parkinson 78pts
2. Ryan Gill 78 pts
3. Fraser Babbington 71 pts

Bareback
1. Stuart Frame 78 pts
1. Darren Clarke 78 pts
3. Dee Heinemann 77pts
4. Brock Mulhall 74 pts

Steer Wrestling
1. Ryan Sainsbury 4.55sec
2. Michael Stanley 4.85sec
3. Lee Kimber 4.85 sec
4. Cody Sheahan 4.95 sec

Team Roping
1. Jeff Miller/Shane Kenny 6.55sec
2. Jesse Townsend/Corey Heath 7.3 sec
3. Grant Hanrahan/ Ty Parkinson 7.5 sec
4. Clancy Middleton Jnr/ Brody Moss 9.4 sec

Barrel Race
1. Teneille Clifford 14.068 sec
2. Leanne Caban 14.100 sec
3. Jane ODell 14.177 sec
4. Shianne ODonoghue Kent 14.288 sec

ROUND FOUR RESULTS SATURDAY NIGHT

Saddle Bronc
1. Peter Moffatt 85 pts
2. Michael Maher 83 pts
3. Cameron Webster 78 pts
4. Glen Kent 77pts
4. Mark Collins 77 pts
4. Lucas Wilson 77 pts

Bull Ride
1. Rhys Angland 85pts
2. Ty Parkinson 79 pts
3. Craig Postle 77 pts
4. Chris Kelly 76 pts

Bareback
1. Darren Clarke 83 pts
2. Dee Heinemann 78 pts
3. Brock Mulhall 75 pts
4. Stuart Frame 74 pts

Steer Wrestling
1. Todd Hensley 4.1sec
2. Terry Evison 4.35sec
3. Tom Willoughby 4.45sec
4. Ryan Sainsbury 5.3sec

Team Roping
1. Michael Stanley/ Lee Kimber6.2sec
2. Clancy Middleton/ Brody Moss 6.45 sec
3. Grant Hanrahan/Ty Parkinson 6.55sec
4. Jesse Townsend/ Corey Heath 6.7 sec

Barrel Race
1. Teneille Clifford 13.905sec
2. Naomi Purcell 14.094sec
3. Karen Upton 14.135sec
4. Shianne ODonoghue-Kent 14.137sec

ENDS

For further information please contact:

Mick Ellison
Fresh Brew Event Coordinators
0414 755 305

Wayne Hickson
HicksonMedia
07 5591 2556
0407 028 917

NATIONAL FINALS RODEO TITLES DECIDED ON GOLD COAST TROY MARA SNARES HIS FIRST NATIONAL BULL RIDING BUCKLE

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 10:25:00 GMT

QUEENSLAND miner Troy Mara was tonight crowned the champion bull rider of Australia following the final round of the Jupiters Australian Professional Rodeo Association (APRA) National Finals Rodeo.

120 of Australias best cowboys and cowgirls competed this week in six Australian championship events at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre at Broadbeach.

Bouldercombes Mara ingloriously bit the dust three seconds into his final round ride but took enough points into Sunday nights decider to take his maiden national championship.

Pre-event favourite, Wantabadgerys two-time Australian champion Rhys Angland, registered only one score in five attempts and finished well down the title placings.

The Saddle Bronc Australian champion is South Australian veteran Glen Kent who was competing in his eleventh National Finals Rodeo while Quirindis Darren Clarke took the Bareback buckle.

Newlywed Teneille Clifford from Gunnedah was consistent all week and took the Ladies Barrel Race at her eighth nationals.

Todd Hensley (Wagga Wagga) won the Steer Wrestling while Emerald dynamic duo Jeff Miller and Shane Kenny took the Team Roping title.

Rodeo organiser Mick Ellison said Gold Coasters have fallen in love with rodeo.

The enthusiasm of the crowds all week has been amazing and the adrenalin has really been rushing through the stadium each night, Mr Ellison said.

The people were on their feet and stomping and clapping every session and for two hours each night rodeo ruled the city.

With the success of this years flood-delayed rodeo, an early decision will need to be made as to its timing in next years Gold Coast major events calendar, he said.

Rodeo supporters include Jupiters, the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, Jack Daniels, RACV Royal Pines Resort, Sunshine Ford, Australian Outback Spectacular, Variety Queensland, Tyrells Wines and Fourex Gold, Coast Tourism, Gold Coast City Council, 102.9 Hot Tomato, Gold Coast Bulletin, Broadbeach Alliance & Tourism Queensland.

NFR ROUND FIVE RESULTS & AUSTRALIAN CHAMPIONS

Saddle Bronc Australian Champion Glen Kent

Round 5:
1. Glen Kent 78 pts
2. Lucas Wilson 77 pts
3. Cody Angland 75 pts
4. Mark Collins 72

Bull Ride Australian Champion Troy Mara

Round 5:
1. Ryan Storey 77 pts

Bareback Australian Champion Darren Clarke

Round 5:
1. Lee Bowker 77pts
2. Cody Angland 76pts
3. Darren Clarke 76pts
4. Bevan Brown 72pts

Rope and Tie Australian Champion Shane Kenny

Round 4:
1. Dale Caban 9.9sec
2. Clancy Middleton Jnr 10.05sec
3. Lee Kimber 10.1sec
4. Brody Moss 10.95

Round 5:
1. Paul Emerson 9.25sec
2. Dale Caban 9.4sec
3. Shane Kenny 9.75
4. Brody Moss 10.3 sec

Steer Wrestling Australian Champion Todd Hensley

Round 5:
1. Shane Iker 3.8sec
2. Cameron Bell 3.9 sec
3. Tom Willoughby 4.2sec
4. Jarrod Deguara 4.25sec

Team Roping Australian Champions Header Jeff Miller & Heeler Shane Kenny

Round 5:
1. Jesse Townsend & Corey Heath 5.75sec
2. Jeff Miller & Shane Kenny 7.15sec
3. Troy Caban & Dale Caban 7.9sec
3. Grant Hanrahan & Ty Parkinson 7.9sec

Barrel Race Australian Champion Teneille Clifford

Round 5:
1. Jane ODell 14.024sec
2. Amber McIntyre 14.079sec
3. Ruth ODonoghue 14.189sec
4. Shianne ODonoghue-Kent 14.269sec

Breakaway Roping Australian Champion Cherie ODonoghue

Round 4:
1. Amber West 2.1sec
2. Cherie ODonoghue 3.0sec
3. Calla Matthews 3.4sec
4. Helen McVicar 3.75sec

Round 5:
1. Amber West 3.1sec
2. Jane Fay 3.15sec
3. Zoe Swain 3.25sec
4. Helen McVicar 3.75sec

ENDS

For further information please contact:

Mick Ellison
Fresh Brew Event Coordinators
0414 755 305

Wayne Hickson
HicksonMedia
07 5591 2556
0407 028 917

HOT FRIDAY NIGHT ACTION AS COAST RODEO ROPES THEM IN THRILLS AND SPILLS AT BROADBEACH ON SECOND NIGHT OF NATIONAL TITLES

Sat, 09 Apr 2011 01:37:00 GMT

THE Bull Riding lived up to its marquee status, but the Saddle Bronc event more than matched its bovine counterpart for thrills and spills during Friday nights second session of the Jupiters Australian Professional Rodeo Association (APRA) National Finals Rodeo.

120 of Australias best cowboys and cowgirls are competing in six Australian championship events at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre at Broadbeach until Sunday.

Saddle Bronc rider Anthony Thomas from Calbar had one of the most spectacular dismounts of the night but walked away smiling and waving to the crowd.

He was not alone with plenty of his fellow riders finding themselves aboard similarly intolerant livestock.

Wantabadgerys Cody Angland defied the trend however to notch the highest-scoring saddled ride of the night while Ryan Gill from Upper Horton NSW and North MacLeans Fraser Babbington took the evenings honours in the Bull Riding with scores of 75 and 57 points respectively.

Friday nights results were:

Saddle Bronc

1. Cody Angland 82 pts

2. Michael Maher 81 pts

3. Greg Hamilton 81 pts

4. Glen Kent 78 pts

Bull Ride

1. Ryan Gill 75pts

2. Fraser Babbington 57pts

Bareback

1. Lee Bowker 77pts

2. Cody Angland 77 pts

3. Darren Clarke 75 pts

4. Stuart Frame 73pts

Steer Wrestling

1. Jarrod Deguara 3.9 sec

2. Shane Iker 4.35 sec

3. Terry Evison 4.65sec

4. Michael Stanley 5.15 sec

Team Roping

1. Robert McPhee/ Joel Lillyman 5.75 sec

2. Grant Hanrahan/ Ty Parkinson 7.6sec

3. Amber West/Gary Tielen 7.85 sec

4. Terry Evison/ Aaron Bookluck 9.0sec

Barrel Race

1. Teneille Clifford 13.858sec

2. Stephanie Gard 14.130sec

3. Shianne ODonoghue-Kent 14.175sec

4. Amber McIntyre 14.263sec

5. Leanne Caban 14.263sec

Rodeo organiser Mick Ellison said Friday nights competition exceeded all expectations.

The livestock took no prisoners and the cowboys and cowgirls were as physically and mentally challenged as one would hope contenders for national crowns in one of the toughest sports on the planet might be, he said.

The rodeo runs each night until Sunday, with a matinee session at 1:00pm on Saturday afternoon which will be attended by Queensland Child Safety and Sport Minister Phil Reeves between 1:20pm and 1:45pm.

Tickets are now available at www.nfrgoldcoast.com.au, www.ticketek.com or at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre ticket office.

Rodeo supporters include Jupiters, the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, Jack Daniels, RACV Royal Pines Resort, Sunshine Ford, Australian Outback Spectacular, Variety Queensland, Tyrells Wines and Fourex Gold, Coast Tourism, Gold Coast City Council, 102.9 Hot Tomato, Gold Coast Bulletin, Broadbeach Alliance & Tourism Queensland.

ENDS

For further information please contact:

Mick Ellison

Fresh Brew Event Coordinators

0414 755 305

Wayne Hickson

HicksonMedia

07 5591 2556

0407 028 917

120 of Australias best cowboys and cowgirls are competing in six Australian championship events at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre at Broadbeach until Sunday.

Saddle Bronc rider Anthony Thomas from Calbar had one of the most spectacular dismounts of the night but walked away smiling and waving to the crowd.

He was not alone with plenty of his fellow riders finding themselves aboard similarly intolerant livestock.

Friday nights results were:

Saddle Bronc

1. Cody Angland 82 pts

2. Michael Maher 81 pts

3. Greg Hamilton 81 pts

4. Glen Kent 78 pts

Bull Ride

1. Ryan Gill 75pts

2. Fraser Babbington 57pts

Bareback

1. Lee Bowker 77pts

2. Cody Angland 77 pts

3. Darren Clarke 75 pts

4. Stuart Frame 73pts

Steer Wrestling

1. Jarrod Deguara 3.9 sec

2. Shane Iker 4.35 sec

3. Terry Evison 4.65sec

4. Michael Stanley 5.15 sec

Team Roping

1. Robert McPhee/ Joel Lillyman 5.75 sec

2. Grant Hanrahan/ Ty Parkinson 7.6sec

3. Amber West/Gary Tielen 7.85 sec

4. Terry Evison/ Aaron Bookluck 9.0sec

Barrel Race

1. Teneille Clifford 13.858sec

2. Stephanie Gard 14.130sec

3. Shianne ODonoghue-Kent 14.175sec

4. Amber McIntyre 14.263sec

5. Leanne Caban 14.263sec

Rodeo organiser Mick Ellison said Friday nights competition exceeded all expectations.

Tickets are now available at www.nfrgoldcoast.com.au, www.ticketek.com or at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre ticket office.

ENDS

For further information please contact:

Mick Ellison

Fresh Brew Event Coordinators

0414 755 305

Wayne Hickson

HicksonMedia

07 5591 2556

0407 028 917

120 of Australias best cowboys and cowgirls are competing in six Australian championship events at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre at Broadbeach until Sunday.

Saddle Bronc rider Anthony Thomas from Calbar had one of the most spectacular dismounts of the night but walked away smiling and waving to the crowd.

He was not alone with plenty of his fellow riders finding themselves aboard similarly intolerant livestock.

Friday nights results were:

Saddle Bronc

1. Cody Angland 82 pts

2. Michael Maher 81 pts

3. Greg Hamilton 81 pts

4. Glen Kent 78 pts

Bull Ride

1. Ryan Gill 75pts

2. Fraser Babbington 57pts

Bareback

1. Lee Bowker 77pts

2. Cody Angland 77 pts

3. Darren Clarke 75 pts

4. Stuart Frame 73pts

Steer Wrestling

1. Jarrod Deguara 3.9 sec

2. Shane Iker 4.35 sec

3. Terry Evison 4.65sec

4. Michael Stanley 5.15 sec

Team Roping

1. Robert McPhee/ Joel Lillyman 5.75 sec

2. Grant Hanrahan/ Ty Parkinson 7.6sec

3. Amber West/Gary Tielen 7.85 sec

4. Terry Evison/ Aaron Bookluck 9.0sec

Barrel Race

1. Teneille Clifford 13.858sec

2. Stephanie Gard 14.130sec

3. Shianne ODonoghue-Kent 14.175sec

4. Amber McIntyre 14.263sec

5. Leanne Caban 14.263sec

Rodeo organiser Mick Ellison said Friday nights competition exceeded all expectations.

Tickets are now available at www.nfrgoldcoast.com.au, www.ticketek.com or at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre ticket office.

ENDS

For further information please contact:

Mick Ellison

Fresh Brew Event Coordinators

0414 755 305

Wayne Hickson

HicksonMedia

07 5591 2556

0407 028 917

120 of Australias best cowboys and cowgirls are competing in six Australian championship events at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre at Broadbeach until Sunday.

Saddle Bronc rider Anthony Thomas from Calbar had one of the most spectacular dismounts of the night but walked away smiling and waving to the crowd.

He was not alone with plenty of his fellow riders finding themselves aboard similarly intolerant livestock.

Wantabadgerys Cody Angland defied the trend however to notch the highest-scoring saddled ride of the night while Ryan Gill from Upper Horton NSW and North MacLeans Fraser Babbington took the evenings honours in the Bull Riding with scores of 75 and 57 points respectively.

Friday nights results were:

Saddle Bronc
1. Cody Angland 82 pts
2. Michael Maher 81 pts
3. Greg Hamilton 81 pts
4. Glen Kent 78 pts

Bull Ride
1. Ryan Gill 75pts
2. Fraser Babbington 57pts

Bareback
1. Lee Bowker 77pts
2. Cody Angland 77 pts
3. Darren Clarke 75 pts
4. Stuart Frame 73pts

Steer Wrestling
1. Jarrod Deguara 3.9 sec
2. Shane Iker 4.35 sec
3. Terry Evison 4.65sec
4. Michael Stanley 5.15 sec

Team Roping
1. Robert McPhee/ Joel Lillyman 5.75 sec
2. Grant Hanrahan/ Ty Parkinson 7.6sec
3. Amber West/Gary Tielen 7.85 sec
4. Terry Evison/ Aaron Bookluck 9.0sec

Barrel Race
1. Teneille Clifford 13.858sec
2. Stephanie Gard 14.130sec
3. Shianne ODonoghue-Kent 14.175sec
4. Amber McIntyre 14.263sec
5. Leanne Caban 14.263sec

Rodeo organiser Mick Ellison said Friday nights competition exceeded all expectations.

The livestock took no prisoners and the cowboys and cowgirls were as physically and mentally challenged as one would hope contenders for national crowns in one of the toughest sports on the planet might be, he said.

The rodeo runs each night until Sunday, with a matinee session at 1:00pm on Saturday afternoon which will be attended by Queensland Child Safety and Sport Minister Phil Reeves between 1:20pm and 1:45pm.

Tickets are now available at www.nfrgoldcoast.com.au, www.ticketek.com or at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre ticket office.

Rodeo supporters include Jupiters, the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, Jack Daniels, RACV Royal Pines Resort, Sunshine Ford, Australian Outback Spectacular, Variety Queensland, Tyrells Wines and Fourex Gold, Coast Tourism, Gold Coast City Council, 102.9 Hot Tomato, Gold Coast Bulletin, Broadbeach Alliance & Tourism Queensland.

ENDS

For further information please contact:

Mick Ellison
Fresh Brew Event Coordinators
0414 755 305

Wayne Hickson
HicksonMedia
07 5591 2556
0407 028 917

RESULTS OF THURSDAY NIGHT'S OPENING SESSION OF THE JUPITERS APRA NATIONAL FINALS RODEO

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 07:09:00 GMT

Please find following the results of Thursday night’s opening session of the Jupiters APRA National Finals Rodeo at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.

ROUND ONE RESULTS:

Saddle Bronc

Cameron Webster – 73 pts
Cody Angland – 72 pts
Carl Chambers – 71 pts
Mark Collins – 71 pts

Bull Ride

Jared Borghero – 84 pts
Troy Mara- 75 pts

Bareback

Lee Bowker – 78 pts
Darren Clarke – 75 pts
Wade Clifford – 75 pts
Anthony Thomas – 73 pts

Steer Wrestling

Steven Colley – 3.95 sec
Kevin Reynolds Jnr – 4.35 sec
Lee Kimber – 4.4 sec
Michael Stanley – 4.45 sec

Team Roping

Jeff Miller & Shane Kenny – 6.75 sec
Michael Stanley & Lee Kimber – 8.2 sec
Clancy Middleton & Brody Moss – 9.25 sec
Shane Iker & Wayne McGhee – 11.8 sec

Barrel Race

Wendy Caban – 13.922 sec
Naomi Purcell – 13.926 sec
Tenielle Clifford – 14.066 sec
Stephanie Gard – 14.228 sec

Competition continues at 7:00pm tonight and finishes on Sunday.

Tickets are available now at www.nfrgoldcoast.com.au or www.ticketek.com or at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre box office on (07) 5504 4181.

Rodeo supporters include Jupiters, the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, Jack Daniels, RACV Royal Pines Resort, Sunshine Ford, Australian Outback Spectacular, Tyrells Wines and Fourex Gold, Coast Tourism, Gold Coast City Council, Gold Coast Bulletin, 102.0 Hot Tomato, Broadbeach Alliance & Tourism Queensland.

NATIONAL FINALS RODEO KICKS OFF IN SPECTACULAR STYLE ON GOLD COAST HUGE FIRST NIGHT FOR AUSTRALIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS EVENT

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 00:17:00 GMT

AUSTRALIA'S top 120 rodeo stars kicked up plenty of dirt and dust tonight at the first session of the Jupiters Australian Professional Rodeo Association (APRA) National Finals Rodeo at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre at Broadbeach.

Australia's largest rodeo is the grand finale of the APRA season with the cowboys and cowgirls competing in six Australian championship events - Bareback Bronc Riding, Steer Wrestling, Barrel Racing, Saddle Bronc Riding, Team Roping and Bull Riding

The evening's highlight was the first bull riding session - the ultimate test of cowboy courage and strength - in which the bulls could rightly claim the first-night honours with a score of 13-2.

Only Beadesert's Jared Borghero and Bouldercombe's Troy Mara managed to stay aboard for the full eight seconds and open up early leads in the race for the blue ribbon championship.

Their thirteen fellow competitors weren't so fortunate, all crashing to earth in spectacular style.

Rodeo organiser Mick Ellison said he was pleased that the rodeo had been so well supported by the Gold Coast community and participants in the national surf lifesaving titles.

"We had plenty of surf life savers walk over from the beach at Kurrawa to take in the rodeo action," Mr Ellison said.

"It provided them with the perfect end to their competition day and we look forward to hosting many more clubbies between now and Sunday," he said

CENTRAL QUEENSLAND COMPETITORS TO PUT IN STRONG EFFORT FOR NATIONAL TITLES

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 07:12:00 GMT

AT just 16 years of age, Wandal cowgirl Calla Matthews is competing in her second National Finals Rodeo this week (April 7-10) at the Gold Coast Exhibition and Convention Centre.

Matthews has won many junior buckles in the Australian Professional Rodeo Association and was sixth in the breakaway roping standings at the end of the 2010 season.

She finished 10th in barrel racing so is in the National Finals Rodeo in two events.

The finals were originally scheduled for January but postponed to April due to the Queensland floods.

One third of the finals qualifiers from around Australia come from Central Queensland which speaks volumes for the region’s success in rodeo.

After winning the all around cowboy title in 2008, Alton Downs cowboy Shane Iker is again in the finals in team roping, steer wrestling and the rope and tie so has a good chance to repeat his heroics of three years ago.

Emerald cowboy Shane Kenny is the most successful in the history of the APRA and has qualified for team roping and the rope and tie.

Two Central Queensland riders are in two rough stock events at the finals. Bull ride pro tour winner Stuart Frame, of Gracemere, and Brett Cross, of Alton Downs, are in the bull ride and bareback this week.

The next APRA rodeo in Central Queensland is on April 23 at Emerald.

Other CQ qualifiers: Team roping: Clancy Middleton (Emerald), Jeff Miller (Emerald), Grant Hanrahan (Emerald), Anthony Lillyman (The Caves), Robert McPhee (Alton Downs), Michael Stanley (Alton Downs), Brody Moss (Emerald), Kacey Kenny (Emerald), Dale Caban (Emerald), Brendan Kenny (Springsure), Joel Lillyman (The Caves), Casey Lillyman (The Caves), Wayne McGhee (Comet).

Barrel race: Leanne Kenny (Emerald), Naomi Purcell (Dingo), Leanne Caban (Emerald).

Steer wrestling: Casey Lillyman (The Caves), Mark Price (Blackwater), Michael Stanley (Alton Downs), Cameron Bell (Gracemere), Barry Ash (Emerald), Ryan Sainsbury (Kabra).

Bull ride: Sonny Schafferius (Dysart), Troy Mara (Bouldercombe), Craig Postle (Mundubbera), Ryan Storey (Dingo).

Rope and tie: Clancy Middleton (Emerald), Dale Caban (Emerald), Cameron Milner (Garnant), Cameron Bell (Gracemere), Brody Moss (Emerald).

Breakaway Roping – Leanne Caban (Emerald), Jorja Watkins (Alton Downs), Emma Leahy (Yeppoon), Melinda Balderson (Emerald).

CONSTRUCTION OF 2011 NATIONAL FINALS RODEO ARENA, RODEO EVE UPDATE BY ORGANISERS AND THE JOYS OF MECHANICAL BULLS

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 07:22:00 GMT

MEDIA are invited to observe the final phase of construction of the indoor APRA 2011 National Finals Rodeo arena at 10:45am on WEDNESDAY 6th April, at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, Broadbeach.

Over 800 tonnes of dirt will have been laid and rodeo officials will be on-hand for rodeo-eve comment on the event preparations and the national competition to be staged this week. Another media option is presented with the installation of a free-to-ride mechanical bull in the Broadbeach Mall from 10:00am until 4:00pm each day. It proved an instant hit with competitors in the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships when installed on Tuesday and it will continue to provide some excellent photo and video opportunities throughout the week. Additional diary notes: Sunshine Ford Cowboy Breakfast at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre Thursday (7th) from 10:00am ahead of first session of competition Thursday night at 7:00pm. For further information please contact: Wayne Hickson HicksonMedia 0407 028 917

ONLY TWO DAYS TO GO TO NATIONAL FINALS RODEO

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 07:08:00 GMT

THE countdown clock is well and truly ticking on this week’s Jupiters National Finals Rodeo at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Tuesday saw over half of the 800 tonnes of dirt needed for the rodeo ring delivered while the cowboys who arrived in town early showed a few competitors in the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships a thing or two about staying on a bull.

As a major rodeo promotion for the April 7^th-10^th event, a free-to-ride mechanical bull has been installed in the Broadbeach Mall until the end of the week.

It proved an instant hit with surf life savers and members of the general public wanting their own eight seconds of rodeo fame.

And they were probably thankful of a much softer landing than they might expect from flesh and blood livestock such as Hard Yards and Destination Unknown, respectively the 2009 and 2010 Bucking Bulls of the Year who will star at the Convention Centre throughout the week.

Here are some other numbers that help demonstrate the size of the National Finals Rodeo.

5 – The number of times the Gold Coast has hosted the National Finals Rodeo.;

6 – The cowboys and cowgirls will compete in six events - Bareback Bronc Riding, Steer Wrestling, Barrel Racing, Saddle Bronc Riding, Team Roping and Bull Riding;

8 – The seconds a rider must stay on the bull or bucking horse to qualify;

10 – The seconds it takes for the professionals in the Team Roping event to chase and rope a steer;

19 – Adult tickets start at just $19.00, children are $12.00 and families are $50.00;

102.9 – Hot Tomato is the official radio sponsor of the event;

120 - The number of rodeo stars competing for Australian championship points in the 2011 rodeo;

200 – The average kilograms a steer weighs in the Steer Wrestling competition;

6,000 – The number of spectators the Gold Coast Convention Centre Main Arena can seat;

132 849 – The number for Ticketek to call and book tickets.

Adult tickets start at $19 children’s tickets at $12 and family tickets start at only $50.

There are also three, four and five session passes and tickets are available now at www.nfrgoldcoast.com.au, www.ticketek.com or at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre ticket office.

AUSTRALIA'S top 120 rodeo stars

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 02:17:00 GMT

AUSTRALIA'S top 120 rodeo stars are have begun arriving on the Gold Coast to once again compete for Australian championships.

The Australian Professional Rodeo Association (APRA) National Finals Rodeo, sponsored by Jupiters, will be held indoors for the fifth consecutive year at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre at Broadbeach from Thursday 7th to Sunday 10th April 2011.

The spectacular multi-million dollar event – Australia’s largest rodeo - is the grand finale of the APRA season and sees the cowboys and cowgirls competing in six events - Bareback Bronc Riding, Steer Wrestling, Barrel Racing, Saddle Bronc Riding, Team Roping and Bull Riding.

After a three-month dedlay becauise of Queensland's flood emergency, it will run at the same time and in the same precinct as the 2011 Australian Surf Life Saving Titles.

Today’s launch at the Jupiters Penthouse was a star-studded affair with the leading contenders in the blue ribbon bull riding and bareback events mixing it with Miss Rodeo Caitlyn McPhee and V8 superstars Todd and Rick Kelly from Jack Daniels Racing.

“This is our fifth year on the Gold Coast and after being knocked around by equine flu a couple of years ago and the Queensland floods this year, we’re ready to really give this event everything to make it a success,” said National Finals Rodeo coordinator John Osborne.

“We have massive support from our sponsors and the media and we can’t thank them enough for coming with us as we moved the event further into the year,” he said.

Adult tickets start at $19 children’s tickets at $12 and family tickets start at only $50. There are also three, four and five session passes and tickets are available now at www.nfrgoldcoast.com.au, www.ticketek.com or at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre ticket office.

Rodeo supporters include Jupiters, the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, Jack Daniels, RACV Royal Pines Resort, Sunshine Ford, Australian Outback Spectacular, Variety Queensland, Tyrells Wines and Fourex Gold, Coast Tourism, Gold Coast City Council, 102.9 Hot Tomato, Gold Coast Bulletin, Broadbeach Alliance & Tourism Queensland.